Water restrictions threat despite flood misery

Residents and businesses across Shropshire could still face restrictions on water use this summer despite the torrential rain which has hit the county this week, it has been claimed.

Helen Cork, environmental advisor for the NFU, said water resources in the county remained 'under great pressure' and added the situation would be constantly reviewed over the next few months.

Communities were today counting the cost of the deluge, which has seen rivers breach their banks and footpaths and play areas flooded.

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Problems have been reported with underground cables while companies in Well- ington Road in Donnington have had problems with ph- one lines and credit card readers.

Flood alerts remain in place on the River Teme in south Shropshire and on the River Lugg north of Leominster. But the heavy rain was today expected to ease and it is hoped river levels would drop over the next few days.

Mrs Cork said: "The rain has been much needed following lower than average rainfall for the past few years and the lack of wet weather has had a major impact on ground and surface water levels.

"Despite the rain Shropshire water resources are still under great pressure and we will have to see if there has been enough rain to stave off restrictions later in the summer.

"While there might be some localised flooding, crops should be well established by now, fruit crops will be under plastic protected by polytunnels and grass growth will benefit livestock later in the season."

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Water levels on the River Severn at the Welsh Bridge in Shrewsbury were expected to peak between 2.4 metres and 2.6 metres today.

Environment Agency officials said they were monitoring Frankwell, to assess if flood barriers would be necessary. The river breached its banks between the Dana and Castlefields Weir.

People in Ludlow have pledged to clear damage to Linney Riverside Park. Town clerk Veronica Calderbank said water levels were a foot lower than on Monday.